Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has called on Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) officers to deepen their understanding of geopolitical and security dynamics in order to safeguard Uganda’s stability and prosperity.

Delivering the message on his behalf, Major General Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information, addressed more than 320 OWC officers during their retreat at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi on Friday, 12 September 2025.

Maj Gen Kulayigye conveyed Gen Kainerugaba’s emphasis on the need to appreciate the geographic, demographic, political, economic, cultural and environmental factors that shape international relations, foreign policy and state power.

“The essence of sustainable security lies in safeguarding a state’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and the welfare of its citizens from both internal and external threats,” he said.

He outlined Uganda’s historical and current geopolitical developments, noting that the country’s secure environment is the result of deliberate investment in law enforcement, infrastructure, cybersecurity and social order.

Citing the Anti-Terrorism Act (2002, amended 2017), he highlighted the importance of legal frameworks in addressing terrorism, organised crime, cyber threats, refugee management and border security.

Maj Gen Kulayigye reassured the officers of the prevailing peace but urged vigilance to preserve it. He presented strategic opportunities for Uganda, including closer regional cooperation, enhanced multilateral engagement, and strengthened partnerships in cybersecurity, counterterrorism and peacekeeping.

He also encouraged leveraging technology to advance intelligence and community policing, and underscored the importance of harnessing Uganda’s natural resources to bolster economic security and social stability.

Concluding the address, Maj Gen Kulayigye relayed Gen Kainerugaba’s call for legal reforms and institutional strengthening to improve oversight, transparency and respect for human rights, essential pillars for sustainable security and development.